Woori Bank Unveils 'NEXT ESG' Strategy, Sets 50 Key Initiatives

Woori Bank said Tuesday it has established a new environmental, social and governance management strategy, “NEXT ESG,” as part of its push to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
 
The plan is designed to put into practice Woori Financial Group’s ESG vision, “A better world we create through finance.” It sets four main directions: reducing carbon emissions; creating social value through finance; strengthening and carrying out ESG expertise; and improving transparent ESG disclosures and governance.
 
Its core program, “NEXT 50,” includes 50 action items such as cutting greenhouse gas emissions and expanding resource recycling, increasing funding support for environmentally friendly companies, and improving financial access for vulnerable groups.

The bank said it aims to carry out the initiatives without disruption to broaden the base of green finance and build a leading model of finance that makes a tangible contribution to society.

Woori Bank said it received a ministerial commendation from the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment in December 2025 in recognition of efforts including expanding eco-friendly finance and practicing carbon neutrality. More recently, in line with the government’s energy-saving policy direction, it has been implementing an alternate-day vehicle-use system and shortening the operating hours of electronic signboards.
 
“ESG plays an important role that goes beyond environmental protection and is directly connected to customers’ lives,” said Shim Seong-jin, head of Woori Bank’s ESG and shared-growth finance department. “Through the NEXT ESG strategy, we will create changes customers can feel and lay the groundwork for companies and society to grow together.”